Universal Studios Japan considers casino bid

July 8, 2014

USJ Co., which operates Universal Studios Japan in Osaka, is considering bidding for a casino license in the city, news agency Kyodo reported, citing unnamed sources. The theme park operator is likely to team up with other parties interested in the new business and lead a consortium, the sources said. An amusement complex with a casino and a theme park may be placed on an artificial island known as Yumeshima, some 3 kilometers away from USJ, according to a blueprint set by local authorities. Japanese legislators began a debate on legalizing casinos in the country in June, though the legislative session ended before the bill could be passed. Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has thrown his weight behind the legislation, raising hopes it will be passed once the Diet reconvenes in Fall.

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